In a decisive move to strengthen the fight against drug trafficking and abuse, key security and community stakeholders in Edo State have pledged deeper collaboration to dismantle drug networks and curb addiction rates.
The initiative was unveiled during a strategic engagement between the Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the State Police Command in Benin City. Commander of the NDLEA in Edo, Mitchell Ofoyeju, led the delegation in a courtesy visit to Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Ogbonika, at the police headquarters.
The meeting brought together several prominent stakeholders, including Hon. Ogheneovo Andrew, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Policy, and Rev. Fr. Dr. Fidelis Arhedo, Executive Director of the Uromi Justice Development and Peace Commission. Their goal: to chart a unified response to the growing threat of drug trafficking and related crimes in the state.
Commander Ofoyeju highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation and community engagement in confronting the drug crisis. “Combatting illicit drugs is not the responsibility of one agency alone. It requires shared intelligence, coordinated enforcement, and sustained public awareness,” he stated.
He also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to dismantling drug cartels while promoting grassroots education through the national War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign spearheaded by NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd).
Commissioner Ogbonika welcomed the collaboration, noting that joint efforts with the NDLEA and community leaders would enhance crime prevention strategies. “We must form a resilient stakeholder forum tasked with implementing practical measures to eliminate drugs and criminal activity in our communities,” he said.
Reinforcing the state government’s stance, Hon. Ogheneovo said Governor Monday Okpebholo is fully behind the anti-drug efforts and willing to support policy and operational initiatives that protect young people from the dangers of substance abuse.
“We must act swiftly and decisively to rid our streets of illicit drugs. The administration is prepared to back all serious interventions,” he assured.
Community leader and advocate, Rev. Fr. Arhedo, stressed the role of public participation in achieving lasting impact. He called for awareness drives in schools, religious centres, and neighborhoods to educate vulnerable populations and prevent addiction.
As a symbolic gesture, both CP Ogbonika and Hon. Ogheneovo were decorated as official WADA Partners by the NDLEA Commander. They also received recent editions of NDLEA Today, a publication that highlights the agency’s national efforts.
Observers say the outcome of this meeting marks a significant step toward building a united front against drug trafficking and reinforcing public safety initiatives in Edo State.
